Ryan is a post-doctoral Research Fellow currently studying the genetic diversity and connectivity of the small giant clam (Tridacna maxima), with a focus on populations in the Coral Sea and Cook Islands. Using genetic analysis, Ryan will examine the current genetic diversity of the clams within these regions and identify the extent of gene flow between these regions and other parts of the species’ distribution. Such information is important for the conservation and management of giant clam populations, which have been overharvested in many parts of the Indo-Pacific (e.g. for food, the aquarium trade, and ornaments).

Prior to his post-doctoral appointment, Ryan was a Masters of Research and PhD student in the Marine Ecology Group researching the biology of sawsharks with different methods. His Masters used histology to document the sensory structures present within the barbels of sawsharks and scanning electron microscopy to examine the microwear (scratches) on the teeth of the rostrum to infer how sawsharks use these features. His PhD used molecular analysis to address questions relating to the population genetics (e.g. population structure and gene flow) and reproductive biology (e.g. multiple paternity and hybridisation) of sawsharks. Ryan has also been involved in other genetics projects on marine organisms within the lab, including epaulette sharks, cauliflower soft corals, and sea cucumbers.

Grants & Awards

• Macquarie University COVID Recovery Grant 2022 - Dispersal and diversity of giant clams (Tridacna spp.) in the southern Pacific Ocean

• Australian Marine Sciences Association Conference 2021 - Fisheries Research Development Corporation (FRDC) Prize for Best Oral Presentation

• ASFB Conference 2019 - John Glover Travel Award

• MQ HDR Conference 2018 - Best presentation of lab based research

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